A newly established forum will provide a single mechanism for the State Government to seek and receive defence industry advice and feedback.
The Defence Advisory Forum, announced today by Defence Issues Minister Paul Papalia, will advise and support the State Government on defence industry capability and business development and investment issues including workforce, skills, research and infrastructure requirements.
Chaired by Western Australian Defence Advocate, Rear Admiral (Rtd) Raydon Gates AO CSM, the forum includes representatives from key industry and defence sector stakeholders including the Australian Industry and Defence Network; Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WA); Henderson Alliance; Australian Industry Group; Construction Contractors Association; Centre for Defence Industry Capability; and each of the four WA public universities.
State Government representatives from Defence West, the Department of Training and Workforce Development and South Metropolitan TAFE will also be included.
The forum will report directly to the Minister, providing independent advice to support the sustainable growth of the Western Australian defence industry sector.
The steering committee, which is overseeing the implementation of the WA Defence and Defence Industries Strategic Plan, will also engage with the forum to seek feedback and advice.
Establishment of the Defence Advisory Forum was a key action from the WA Defence and Defence Industries Strategic Plan, and the State Government's Plan for Jobs.
As stated by Defence Issues Minister Paul Papalia:
"Promoting WA's defence industry capability is a key Government priority.
"The forum will help us identify and target opportunities for WA's defence industry and make sure we have the workforce, skills and infrastructure to support it.
"I welcome Rear Admiral Gates as the forum chairperson and look forward to the ideas and issues that will be raised.
"Western Australia is home to a world-class and globally competitive defence industry, including a thriving research and development sector.
"Establishment of the Defence Advisory Forum will help maximise this potential, leading to economic growth and jobs for our State."
